City Announces Building Deconstruction and Salvage Program at Somass Lands

Port Alberni, BC –Students interested in learning about building deconstruction, salvage and the circular economy will soon have the opportunity to have hands-on experience as part of the redevelopment of the Somass Lands project.

The City of Port Alberni, Synergy Foundation, and North Island College (NIC) have teamed up to offer a unique learning environment where students will be able to hone their skills in building deconstruction and salvage as part of the site’s redevelopment. Funding for the program is provided by the Province of BC through the Community Workforce Response Grant. 

Bob Haugen, Director of Continuing Education and Training, and Evan Borovica, Project Manager, City of Port Alberni, look over the site on the Somass lands where NIC students will soon receive hands on training to salvage and deconstruct buildings in ways that maximize recycling and reuse of materials.

“A big part of our vision is to ensure as much of the leftover material on site is either recycled or reused into new, useful products - benefitting the environment and keeping unnecessary waste out of our landfills,” said Mayor of Port Alberni Sharie Minions. “It’s a win-win knowing that we able to provide local students with this unique hands-on experience as part of the redevelopment of the Somass site.”

“Students in this new program will begin to develop the necessary skills and knowledge to safely work in the building deconstruction and salvage industry, an important component of the construction industry,” said Evan Borovica, Project Manager at the City of Port Alberni.

“We are excited to launch this new program as it focuses on the development of the principles of the circular economy, which aims to eliminate waste and promote the continual use of resources,” explained Bob Haugen, Director, NIC Continuing Education and Training. “The program will help the City of Port Alberni more effectively manage its resources as the buildings are deconstructed, while also providing new training for students. It’s a win-win.”

The program is fully funded for eligible participants. The students in the program can also gain access to additional financial support such as transportation and daycare costs, which can greatly reduce barriers to training and future employment.  The program starts February 12, 2024 and will have space for 12 students.

Students interested in the Building Salvage and Deconstruction program at NIC can learn more online at www.nic.bc.ca/building-deconstruction-and-salvage or by contacting Leanne Moore, Regional Continuing Education & Training Officer, NIC Continuing Education & Training at leanne.moore@nic.bc.ca.

To stay updated on the project, visit letsconnectpa.ca/somass-lands.